Session J1 - Drones to the Rescue: How UAS Technology is Promoting Environmental Sustainability
Kyle T. Snyder, MBA
Robert N. Oelberg, PLA
Drone technology is rapidly and profoundly transforming numerous industries: construction, forestry, mining, agriculture, surveying and real estate, as well as land planning and design. Examples of several UAS applications that preserve, protect or enhance the natural environment include identification of natural habitats, such as wetlands; identifying native species; uncovering instances of poaching and the thorough documentation of environmental impacts through the comparison of before, during and after aerial images.
The second part of the presentation is a more detailed account of how UAS technology is expediting the creation of 2D Orth mosaic images and 3D site models. These images and models have a lot more detail and accuracy than conventional standards for landscape plans and virtual models. The images and models generated by UAS technology are captured and available for use expediently and cost effectively. Used in conjunction with conventional landscape plans, 3D fly through videos of ordinary landscape projects are an extraordinarily persuasive tool to promote the cause of sustainable landscapes.
Session J2 (Tour) ñ An Urban Hike: Preserving and Creating Urban Open Space and Public Art in a rapidly growing Downtown
Dan Jewell, PLA, ASLA
Morgan Haynes, AIA
Todd Delk, PE
Andrew Porter, PLA, ASLA
Downtown Durham has experienced phenomenal growth and densification in the past decade. This leisurely 2-mile walk from the American Tobacco Trailhead and the Durham Bulls Athletic Park to the historic Durham Athletic Park... and beyond, will explore how public and private spaces have been preserved, enhanced and created to keep the public realm as welcoming and vibrant as the private realm. The tour will feature multiple speakers with expertise at each stop along the route, including a conversation about the ongoing SmART Art initiative along the length of the corridor. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.